The contest is open to undergraduates who write bylined, general interest, editorial page or specialized columns that appear in the print or online editions of their college newspapers.

The first-prize winner, chosen by a panel of judges appointed by the NSNCEF, will receive a scholarship of $1,500 and will be a guest of the NSNCEF at the annual convention of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists in Manchester, New Hampshire, on June 8-11. Second- and third- prize winners will be selected and recognized with certificates and awards of $250 and $100, respectively.